How to Grow Endive & Escarole

Updated June 2026

A cool-season leafy for the home garden across the warmer US.

Endive & Escarole is a rewarding cool-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Endive & Escarole is a cool-season crop. In the South and Southwest, plant in fall through winter when the heat eases. See your region on the endive & escarole page for exact timing.

Varieties

Broadleaf Batavian (Escarole), Mild, hearty heads (Baker Creek)
Green Curled, Frilly, slightly bitter endive (Southern Exposure Seed Exchange)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: part sun to light shade, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 10 in between plants.
Sowing: barely cover the seed.
Water: roughly 1.1 gal per plant every 2 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Aphids, Slugs and Snails. In humid regions, Downy mildew and Bottom rot can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Endive & Escarole is usually ready to harvest in roughly 6 weeks. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant endive & escarole where you garden.

See what to plant this month

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